Football legend and Dubai resident Clarence Seedorf appointed as Corinthians head coach

Dubai-based Clarence Seedorf, the ex-AC Milan and Real Madrid midfielder, has been named as the new head coach of Brazilian club Corinthians. The 49-year-old, who currently resides in Dubai with his Canadian-Iranian wife, Sophia Makramati, resumes his managerial career following a hiatus since 2019. Seedorf has inked a contract that extends until the conclusion of 2027, with the club currently occupying the 16th position in the Brazilian league's top division. Just one position above the relegation zone, Corinthians has eight games remaining in the season.

His appointment supersedes that of Fernando Diniz, the interim coach of Brazil's national team, who was recently sacked after a string of seven consecutive league losses. Seedorf's previous managerial role was with the Cameroon national team in 2019, apart from stints at AC Milan, Shenzhen FC, and Deportivo La Coruna.

Speaking on his new role, Seedorf expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Taking on this challenge is an honour, but also a huge responsibility. I am here to give my all and build a team that fights for every ball, every minute, every victory."

Inheriting a squad that includes former Manchester United stars Memphis Depay and Jesse Lingard, Seedorf aims to turn the fortunes of Corinthians around. Having retired from professional football in 2014, the Dutchman enjoys a distinguished playing career, including four Champions League titles with AC Milan, Real Madrid, and Ajax. Seedorf remains the only player to have won the Champions League with three different clubs.